With the 49SL Mk III, Novation presents a DAW USB controller that is oriented towards the needs of hardware users. Completely detached from the computer, the pattern-based 8-track sequencer generates notes and events that are output via two MIDI outputs and two CV/gate/mod strings. In addition to the sequencer, the semi-weighted keyboard with numerous controllers invites you to enter notes and play live. Five small, high-resolution displays, colour-coded buttons and the illuminated keyboard provide visual feedback at all times.
The 49SL Mk III fits perfectly into a DAW environment and also facilitates access to the functions of a computer-based production environment, thanks to the implemented sequencer. Eight faders and encoders, sixteen pads and the 49-button keyboard make every action in the master sequencer haptically realisable.
In addition to stability improvements and bug fixes, particularly for Logic Pro, the highlights of the new OS include new features for the arpeggiator and sequencer. An individually adjustable arpeggiator can be activated for each of the eight tracks, which can now also be provided with a random function. In addition, set steps in the sequencer can be programmed with a probability; depending on the percentage value, the note is sometimes played and sometimes not. Tracks and individual patterns can now also be transposed. Swing/Shuffle can be (de-)activated for each track, resulting in an even livelier groove. Thanks to changeable start and end points in the pattern, different variations of the pattern are now also possible. If desired, the pitch bender can be assigned to the CV output for pitch control. The new firmware can be downloaded free of charge using the Novation software tool "Components".
With the latest update, this device offers NKS support: control over 2000 NKS instruments and effects. It allows you to load, customise and manage presets with physical controls. Help with controller integration can be found on the Native Instruments website.
A voucher code for Native Instruments Komplete 15 Select is also included. After registering the hardware, one of three available Select variants (Beats - Band - Electronic) can be selected. Customers who already own a compatible device will also receive the voucher for Komplete 15 Select (the hardware may still need to be registered in order to receive the voucher code).
Novation 49 SL mk IIII primarily purchased this controller to use with Cubase. It was fairly easy to set up and worked straight away with my DAW. The getting started booklet helped in the setting up and the Components app allows easy firmware updates and the saving of all my settings. I can highly recommend the SL mkIII keyboards.